July 7, 2025: In a case that has captivated Australia and shocked the world, a jury on Monday found Erin Patterson guilty of murdering her estranged husband’s parents and aunt by serving them beef Wellington laced with deadly mushrooms. The verdict comes nearly a year after the fatal lunch and concludes weeks of intense courtroom testimony.
The Crime
On July 29, 2023, Patterson invited her former in-laws for lunch at her home in Leongatha, Victoria. Among the guests were Gail and Donald Patterson (both 70), Heather Wilkinson (66), and her husband Ian Wilkinson (68). Erin’s estranged husband, Simon Patterson, declined the invitation.
The meal consisted of beef Wellington—a dish made with steak, mushroom paste, and puff pastry—along with mashed potatoes and green beans. Within hours, all four guests fell critically ill. Gail, Donald, and Heather died shortly afterward; Ian Wilkinson survived after weeks in a medically induced coma.
The Investigation
Authorities later discovered the beef Wellington had been contaminated with death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides)—one of the deadliest fungi known to humans. All parts of the mushroom are toxic, and cooking does not destroy the poison.
Though Patterson claimed the incident was a “terrible accident” and that she too became ill, prosecutors argued otherwise. Investigators found that:
- She had researched locations of death cap mushrooms online.
- A food dehydrator traced to her was found dumped at a landfill, containing traces of the mushrooms.
- Patterson initially lied to police about foraging mushrooms and owning a dehydrator.
- A kitchen scale was allegedly used to weigh out precise toxic doses.
Her two children, who were present in the house, did not consume the meal.
The Trial and Verdict
The trial began on April 29, 2025, at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in Morwell, Victoria, with Justice Christopher Beale presiding. Prosecutor Nanette Rogers led the case against Patterson, detailing evidence of premeditation.
On Monday, the jury found Patterson:
- Guilty of three counts of murder (Gail, Donald, and Heather)
- Guilty of attempted murder (Ian Wilkinson)
Patterson, 50, has been in custody since her November 2023 arrest. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. A sentencing date has not yet been announced.
The Danger of Death Cap Mushrooms
Amanita phalloides, or death cap mushrooms, are commonly found under oak trees in Europe, North America, and Australia. They resemble edible varieties but contain a potent toxin that inhibits DNA synthesis, leading to liver and kidney failure. One mushroom is enough to be fatal. Symptoms usually appear within 6 to 12 hours of ingestion.
The Patterson case has not only raised awareness about the dangers of wild mushroom foraging but also highlighted the complexities of proving intent in food-related poisoning cases. The sentencing phase is expected to draw continued attention from both legal experts and the general public.